Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, refers to the condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth don’t make enough saliva to maintain moisture in the mouth.
Dry mouth is often the side effect of certain medications, of aging issues, or as a result of radiation treatment for cancer.
Less often, dry mouth can be caused by a condition that directly affects the salivary glands.
To discover the cause of your dry mouth, your dentist likely will review your medical history and all medication you’re taking, including over-the-counter medications, and examine your mouth.
Causes of Dry Mouth
Some of the causes of dry mouth are the following:
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Anxiety disorder
- Smoking
- Using marijuana
- Taking tranquilisers
- Exercising or playing under the heat
- Taking certain medications, including some antihistamines and appetite suppressants
- Aging
- HIV/AIDS
- Snoring
- Parkinson’s disease
Symptoms of Dry Mouth
- Bad breath
- Lipstick sticking in the mouth
- More frequent gum disease
- More tooth decay and plaque
- Problem speaking
- Sticky saliva
- Sore throat
Treatment for Dry Mouth
The therapy depends on the cause of your dry mouth.
Your Cheltenham dentist may:
- Change medications that cause dry mouth
- Stimulate saliva production
- Prevent tooth decay
Your dentist may recommend using artificial saliva products. These products are available over-the-counter, in a rinse or spray.
Toothpaste, mouthwashes, and moisturising gels that are specially formulated for individuals with dry mouth are also available.
Here are some home remedies for dry mouth:
- Drink lots of water
- Suck on sugarless candies
- Improve overall oral care
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Chew sugarless gum
Avoid the following:
- Breathing through your mouth
- Smoking tobacco
- Dry foods
- Spicy foods
- Sugary foods and drinks
Alcohol consumption should be regulated or avoided altogether, and caffeine should be only be consumed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is xerostomia?
Xerostomia, most commonly called dry mouth, is a condition in which the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth wet, and it is a common side effect of medication, which may improve with a new prescription or an adjustment of dosage.
Usually, we all get a dry mouth when we are upset, under stress, or extremely frightened.
Some patients may think the dry mouth is a normal part of aging, but it is not. However, it is more commonly found in older adults.
What are the symptoms of dry mouth?
Symptoms of dry mouth can include a sticky, dry, or burning feeling in the mouth, bad breath, an altered sense of taste, and insufficient saliva production.
Dry mouth is common in old people and the very young ones, but it can affect anyone anytime, and there are a number of common causes.
Why is saliva so important?
Saliva provides the first defence against chemical, mechanical, and infectious attacks. It also:
- Helps you digest food properly
- Protects you from tooth decay
- Helps fight against infections by controlling the number of bacteria in the mouth
Is dry mouth a disease?
Dry mouth is not a disease; it is a symptom of other condition.
How do I keep my mouth moist?
Drink water frequently to keep your mouth from slowing down saliva production and drying up.
Is dry mouth a sign of diabetes?
Anyone can get dry mouth, but it is also a common symptom of type 1 and 2 diabetes.
Dry Mouth Treatment in Cheltenham
Dry mouth treatments performed at Captivate Dental are easy, safe, and beneficial to our patients.
Visit your Cheltenham dentist for a consultation today!
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For more information about dry mouth and their treatment in Cheltenham, call us on (03) 9553 1249. Visit us on the web, or use our convenient online booking page.
We are located at 36 Chesterville Road in Cheltenham.